The way I see it, there are two distinct types of travelers: those who keep returning to one beloved destination and those seized by an irresistible urge to explore new locales. Given my severe case of wanderlust, I clearly fall into the latter category. For years, my modus operandi has been to keep upping the ante and adding to my catalogue of been there, done that experiences. But my latest conquest—sublime subtropical Hong Kong—has so much to offer that it is already beckoning me back. This Special Administrative Region of China is both undeniably exotic and surprisingly affordable. (For example, Go Today has five-night fly-and-stay bundles from LA starting at $999; while Gate 1 Travel has similar packages priced from $1099.) So go ahead—pack your bags and experience Hong Kong’s greatest hits for yourself.
1. Get Lucky
One of Hong Kong’s most atmospheric attractions is the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, where you can light some incense, shake out a chim “fortune stick,” and then, for about $3.75, have a wizened soothsayer give you a glimpse into your future. Since the news won’t necessarily be cheery (trust me, I discovered that the hard way!) it might be prudent to improve your odds beforehand by practicing a little Feng Shui: the ancient Chinese philosophy that sees the positioning of objects as a means of accentuating positive energy. Find out about its guiding principles at a Feng Shui class available at no charge every Thursday morning from 10:30–11:30 AM, courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
2. Tea Up
Wonder where all the tea in China is? Well, much of it must be here because Hong Kong is steeped in a rich tea-drinking tradition. For the full English-style afternoon experience complete with finger sandwiches and dainty cakes, the posh Peninsula Hotel is the place to be ($30). On the other hand, if it’s local flavor you’re after, opt for a traditional Chinese teahouse. Lock Cha’s Hong Kong Park location is a great starting point because its proprietor offers no-cost tea appreciation sessions four times a week, as well as a Sunday tea-and-music combo ($10) and to-die-for daily dim sum (from $1.50). As an added bonus, you can buy teas to take home or move next door to learn more at the free Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware.
